MG MGB License Plate Bulb Size

The MG MGB license plate light uses DE3423 and 1895 bulb sizes according to the provided technical data. Information for the specified lighting components covers the period from 1969 to 1980.

The year-by-year compatibility chart below provides a quick reference to verify the correct bulb size for your vehicle.

Bulb Size by Year Range

Years	Bulb Size
1978-1980	DE3423
1977	1895
1974-1976	DE3423
1973	1895
1969-1972	DE3423

Bulb Specifications

Description	Bulb Size
ANSI standard (US & Canada). Festoon bulb, 41mm length, end-cap contacts. 12V.	DE3423
ANSI standard (US & Canada). Miniature wedge bulb (T5). 12V, 0.9W.	1895

Other Locations

Additional Notes

The DE3423 is a festoon-type bulb measuring 41mm in length with end-cap contacts, operating at 12 volts. Festoon bulbs are held in place by spring-loaded holders that grip each end of the cylindrical glass tube.
The 1895 is a miniature wedge bulb of the T5 form factor, rated at 12 volts and 0.9 watts. Wedge bulbs use a pinched glass base as the contact point rather than a separate metal cap.
Both the DE3423 and the 1895 conform to ANSI standards applicable to the United States and Canada.
The MG MGB uses the DE3423 for the license plate position across the 1969-1972 model years.
The 1973 MGB departs from the DE3423 specification, with the 1895 wedge bulb listed instead.
The 1974-1976 model years return to the DE3423 festoon bulb for the license plate position.
The 1977 MGB again specifies the 1895 rather than the DE3423, making it the second non-consecutive year to use the wedge-type bulb.
The 1978-1980 model years revert to the DE3423 festoon bulb, consistent with the majority of the production range covered by these specifications.
The DE3423 and the 1895 are not interchangeable. They differ in physical form factor, base type, and mounting method, meaning a holder designed for a festoon bulb will not accept a wedge-base bulb and vice versa.
The 1895 at 0.9 watts represents a notably low power draw, consistent with its T5 miniature classification and typical use in small indicator or auxiliary lighting positions.